Elephant & Ungulate Keeper

Candidates can apply by sending their cover letter and resume to hr@wildlifesafari.net.

Position Overview

This is a full-time staff position responsible for the daily animal husbandry of the Elephants, Rhinos, Giraffes, and many more hoofstock. The keeper works in coordination between the Elephant Department and Ungulate Department to cover priority duties for the day. The scheduled shift is four days a week, 10-hour shifts, including weekends, evenings, and holidays, unless otherwise decided by the department supervisor or Curator. Works independently and in a team environment to apply the highest standards of animal care, enrichment and training.  Interacts with the public to educate them about the collection and conservation concerns, providing keeper talks and encounters. Works closely with the veterinary staff to maintain animals’ good health and well-being.

Responsibilities

• Works in coordination between the Elephant Department and Ungulate Department to perform the general daily care of the animals in assigned exhibit and holding areas.  Maintains exhibits and holding areas in a clean and presentable condition at all times.
• Abides by department or species’ protocols to assure the highest level of keeper and public safety.
• Carefully observes the animal collection for signs of illness or injury and reports problems to the department Supervisor.  
• Works closely with the vet staff to diagnose and treat medical needs of the collection.  Assists with examinations, knock downs, and procedures. Administers prescribed treatments.
• Responds to department emergencies to maintain guest and animal safety.
• Prepares food in accordance with dietary requirements and restrictions.
• Provides enrichment as agreed to by department management.
• Trains animals for husbandry behaviors and guest demonstrations.
• Conducts keeper talks and animal encounters as scheduled by the Guest Services Department.
• Maintains accurate and complete records as required by the department.
• Performs restraint, crating/uncrating and general transport of animals as needed.
• Participates in all safari activities and events, for example, shows and after hour fundraisers, as required by management.
• Assists in data collection for approved research projects.
• Assists department supervisor as needed and other duties as assigned.

Qualifications                           

• Previous experience working in a drive thru or other zoo environment preferred. College education in a zoological or related field is preferred.
• Valid driver license for a minimum of three-years with a clean driving record.
• Able to endure extreme weather conditions.  
• Able to bend, stoop, crawl and walk on uneven surfaces, and lift up to 50 lbs.  
• Able to pass pre-employment substance, and annual TB tests.
• Able to work in a team and independently as needed.
• Ability to be flexible on schedule between Elephant and Ungulate Departments

Benefits

• Health and dental benefits after 60 days
• Aflac benefits
• 40% off in Restaurant and Gift Shop
• Sick leave and paid time off
• Veterinarian and vehicle services at cost
• Free membership with reciprocal zoo
• Free animal encounters
• Employee parties throughout the year

This is a permanent, full-time position. Applications will be accepted until position is filled.

Wildlife Safari is a drug-free workplace and applicants must pass a drug screen (including for Marijuana) prior to being offered a position.

Wildlife Safari will consider all qualified applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws. Wildlife Safari will not discriminate against any applicant for employment because of physical or mental disability in regard to any position for which the applicant is qualified.

Experience Required

Animal husbandry & public speaking.

Perks

Wildlife Safari offers health insurance, dental, 401(k) with match up to 3%, supplemental insurance, paid time off, and vet and vehicle services at cost.

Salary

$15.50 an hour, full time